A Kingsteignton writing group that supports people with disabilities and mental health challenges risks closure unless it can find more funding.

Kingscare Writers’ Group, which was set up for the Kingsteignton Medical Centre seven years ago, is looking for a ‘writing angel’ to ensure it can continue offering its weekly meetings and publish a booklet featuring club members’ writing. The group needs just under £1000 per year to operate.

Despite actively looking for grant funding, the group has not yet been able to secure the money it needs to continue. ‘Groups offering arts activities struggle for funding; the priority is still physical fitness and reducing isolation through no-pressure social engagement,’ explained Kingscare writing facilitator Sarah Hopkins. ‘So we are looking for a writing angel to help us survive the funding shortfall for arts in health,’ she added.

Around ten people take part in the weekly group, which promotes the beneficial power of trying something new, sharing ideas and hearing members’ own work being read out. ‘Members of all ages have often struggled alone with recovery, bereavement, disability and anguish,’ Sarah said. ‘Becoming poets and storytellers has strengthened lives: communication, sociability, aspiration and mental fitness all improve,’ she added.

Ann Dickson from Kingscare Writing Group shares her work
KingsCare Writing Group needs a funding angel to secure its future (Contributed)

To date, the group has published three books containing work that has been self-selected by its writers. ‘We do a book launch and live readings at Kingscare’s coffee mornings. This spreads the love of writing and reading and raises funds,’ Sarah said.

Kingscare Writers is one of several groups run by Kingscare. The charity, which started life as Kingscare League of Friends in 1997, was set up by Kingsteignton Medical Practice to improve the quality of life of those in need throughout Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot and the surrounding villages.

As well as the writing group, Kingscare offers advice, support, transport, memory cafes, outings, singing groups, walking and exercise groups and craft and games groups.

Any funding angels wishing to become a recognised supporter of the writing group by contributing to project costs for the publication and launch of the booklet and running costs going forward should get in touch with Sarah Hopkins at Kingscare.